Advocacy
What is advocacy?
- Advocacy is about speaking up for oneself or on behalf of someone else according to their needs and wishes.
- Advocacy is speaking for, or representing, someone’s views in the way they would if they could.
- Advocacy is particularly important for people who are likely to be marginalised, excluded, discriminated against or are vulnerable because of their mental health problem.
How can an Advocate help?
An advocate is there to protect your rights as a user of mental health services, and to support you in putting forward your point of view
- You may not agree with professional decisions which are being made about you
- Getting the right kind of support can be confusing and frustrating
- You may be concerned about your rights and freedoms if you approach services for help
Advocates can help in the following ways:
- Helping you to decide what to do
- Finding out information and who to contact
- Telling you about your rights
- Going to meetings and appointments with you
- Representing you at reviews, hearings and tribunals
- Speaking out on your behalf
- Making sure your rights are respected
MAP- Mental Health Advocacy in Pembrokeshire
Advocacy is a FREE service.
It is INDEPENDENT – we are accountable to you, not to a hospital or care provider
It is CONFIDENTIAL – we do not pass on information about you without your permission or discuss your situation with anyone else
Advocates are NOT counsellors, social workers, mediators or advisors.
Advocates at MAP are full time paid specialist workers.
Advocacy relationships can be short or long term. They can involve support for people in everyday living situations as well as for people facing a major transition or important decision.
